Italian Chicken Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 10, 2025

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Italian Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Feast

This Italian chicken recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's packed with fresh herbs, juicy chicken, and a delicious, rich sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is easily adaptable to your spice preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust the quantities as needed for your group size.

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. You can also use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: A high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor significantly.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion work best.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is preferred for its potent aroma.
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness.
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Low sodium chicken broth is recommended.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Italian seasoning can be substituted, but oregano provides a distinct flavor.
• 1 tsp dried basil: Fresh basil is ideal if you have it on hand.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adjust to your spice preference.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Season generously throughout the cooking process.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches until golden brown on all sides. This step adds wonderful flavor and texture. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

4. Combine and Cook: Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over pasta, rice, or polenta. A side salad with a simple vinaigrette complements this dish beautifully.

Tips and Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish with other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Add them along with the onions.
• Spice it Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with other Italian herbs like rosemary or thyme.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can also be easily adapted for a slow cooker. Sear the chicken as directed, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

This Italian chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the ease of preparation! Remember to share your culinary creations using the hashtag #ItalianChickenRecipe. Happy cooking!